Things to see and do in Malahide, Co. Dublin

Malahide Castle

Set on 250-acres of parkland, Malahide Castle was both a fortress and a private home for nearly 800 years and is an interesting mix of architectural styles.

The Talbot family lived here from 1185 to 1973, when the last Talbot died. The house is furnished with beautiful period furniture, together with an extensive collection of Irish portrait paintings, mainly from the National Gallery. Within the visitor centre in the courtyard, a new interpretation and exhibition area tells visitors the story of the walled gardens as seen through the eyes of ‘Lord Milo Talbot’, the creator of the gardens and grounds as seen today.

Malahide Marina

Sitting just inside the sheltered broadmeadow estuary, Malahide Marina is the ideal location from which to enjoy sailing the waters of the Irish Sea. This seaside village is the jewel in the crown of this scenic stretch of Ireland’s magnificent eastern coastline. There are 350 fully serviced berths in the Marina, located in a well-protected inlet, and vessels of up to 75m can be accommodated.

On the marina itself, Geisha Restaurant (Thai and Asian fusion), with a 280-seater bar and restaurant is ideal for groups with sailing activities in mind. Dublin International Airport is a mere four miles from the marina.

Oscar Taylor’s Restaurant

Oscar Taylor’s is one of the most popular eating establishments in the Fingal and Malahide area. With a seating capacity of 170, it is the most spacious, with more than ample room for the discerning diner. Planned and built on the top of the Island View Hotel, with an excellent sea view and a fantastic atmosphere, the extensive menu caters for all tastes.

Grab a pint in Gibney’s

Nestled in the gorgeous seaside town of Malahide, Gibney’s celebrates the spirit of the Irish pub; a local mixing pot and social hub. Patrons of all ages and backgrounds gather here to enjoy hearty fare, a cold pint, live music, sporting events, or to simply savour the warm hospitality and friendly banter.

Café Provence for breakfast

Café Provence is a family-run business, established in 2002 by Lucy and Simon Higgins. Cafe Provence is situated in the heart of Malahide village and during the day, it is a great place to have breakfast, a delicious lunch or a coffee and scone. From 5pm, they offer early evening, early bird and a la carte menus.

Malahide Beach

Malahide has a 2km beach which, following an attractive coastal walk, leads into the neighbouring Portmarnock beach. This beach is lifeguarded during the summer months and has facilities for the disabled.

If you’re lucky enough (go on a weekday, or evening) you might even get the entire beach to yourself. There’s nothing more enthralling than being alone with a vast expanse of beach in front of you, and being free to skip, dance, sing or scream.

Malahide Beach is also good for a sit down. It offers a lovely vista out to Lambay Island, Howth and Ireland’s Eye (depending on how far you walk, that is). Also, take a look on the ground; there are some lovely shells to be found if you look hard enough.

Irish Centre for Cycling

Irish Centre for Cycling live and breathe to cycle and want to share their passion with you. Their bike tours have been created from their own cycling experiences and they have bike tours and bike rentals to suit everyone’s needs. Why not catch a train to Malahide with the family, hire some bikes and take a spin towards Portmarnock for a picnic, the kids will love it! You can hire bikes for an hour, a half day, a full day or as many days as you like at their base at Malahide Castle.

Fowler’s Pub

Fowler’s pub and eating house has a relaxing atmosphere with a contrasting blend of styles. Curious furnishings and interesting elements give Fowlers a special identity. They are the only establishment country-wide to have a specially designed cold room. Patrons can view the inner workings of their establishment where crisp, cold beverages are stored and refrigerated before being dispensed to the bar. There’s also a three-tiered outdoor area for those wonderful Irish summer months. Take in the local sea breeze and relax in this leafy well-spaced area.